02725, Somerset, Massachusetts Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 02725, Somerset, Massachusetts is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Asthma Score Review: Best Hospitals Near ZIP Code 02725**

Navigating asthma care can be complex. This review provides a factual assessment of hospitals near Fall River, MA (ZIP code 02725), focusing on factors crucial for asthma patients: quality of care, emergency services, specialized resources, and accessibility. The analysis incorporates data from publicly available sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and third-party healthcare rating organizations.

**Defining the Asthma Score**

An “Asthma Score” isn't a standardized metric. This review uses a composite approach, weighing several key factors: CMS star ratings (reflecting overall hospital quality), emergency room wait times (critical for asthma exacerbations), the presence of specialized asthma centers or programs, telehealth availability (for remote monitoring and consultations), and the availability of pediatric pulmonology services.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The primary hospital serving Fall River is **Saint Anne's Hospital**, part of Steward Health Care. While Saint Anne's Hospital does not currently have a CMS star rating, its performance metrics are available via CMS. CMS data provides insights into readmission rates for respiratory conditions, which is a key indicator for asthma management. Examining Saint Anne's Hospital’s performance on these measures is crucial for understanding its capacity to manage asthma patients.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a critical consideration for asthma patients. Rapid access to treatment during an asthma attack can be life-saving. Saint Anne's Hospital’s ER wait times should be considered a critical piece of information for asthma patients. The availability of respiratory therapists and the speed with which nebulizer treatments and other interventions are administered are crucial elements of ER asthma care.

**Specialized Asthma Centers and Programs**

The presence of specialized asthma centers or programs can significantly enhance the quality of asthma care. These centers often provide comprehensive services, including: asthma education, pulmonary function testing, allergy testing, and personalized treatment plans. Saint Anne's Hospital should be evaluated for its specific asthma programs. The availability of certified asthma educators and the integration of asthma management protocols into the hospital's overall care system are important considerations.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in asthma management. Remote monitoring of peak flow rates, symptom tracking, and virtual consultations can help patients manage their condition effectively and reduce the need for emergency room visits. Saint Anne's Hospital's telehealth capabilities, specifically for asthma patients, should be investigated. The availability of virtual asthma education programs and the use of remote monitoring devices can significantly impact patient outcomes.

**Pediatric Pulmonology Services**

For families with children, the availability of pediatric pulmonology services is essential. These specialists have expertise in diagnosing and treating asthma in children. Saint Anne's Hospital's access to pediatric pulmonologists should be evaluated. The hospital's collaboration with children's hospitals or pediatric specialists is also a key factor.

**Additional Hospitals to Consider**

While Saint Anne's Hospital is the primary provider near 02725, patients may consider hospitals further afield for specialized care or alternative options.

**Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, RI):** Located approximately 30 miles from Fall River, Rhode Island Hospital is a major medical center. It has a 4-star CMS rating. Rhode Island Hospital has a large emergency department and a comprehensive range of medical specialties. Its proximity to Fall River makes it a potential option for residents seeking specialized care.

**Hasbro Children's Hospital (Providence, RI):** Affiliated with Rhode Island Hospital, Hasbro Children's Hospital offers specialized pediatric services, including pulmonology. For families with children, Hasbro Children's Hospital may be a preferred option.

**Boston Hospitals (Boston, MA):** Boston, approximately 50 miles from Fall River, is home to several world-renowned hospitals. These hospitals often have advanced asthma programs and access to cutting-edge research and treatment options.

**Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA):** A flagship hospital with a 5-star CMS rating, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) is a leading medical center. MGH has a highly regarded pulmonary and critical care division, which includes asthma specialists. Access to MGH may require travel, but the hospital's reputation for excellence makes it a consideration for complex asthma cases.

**Brigham and Women's Hospital (Boston, MA):** Another major Boston hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), also has a strong pulmonary department. BWH's CMS rating should be considered.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Boston, MA):** Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) is another Boston hospital with a strong reputation.

**Navigating the Healthcare System**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care involves careful consideration of individual needs and preferences. Patients should discuss their specific requirements with their primary care physicians and asthma specialists. Factors to consider include: the severity of their asthma, the need for specialized services, and the availability of telehealth options.

**Accessing Information**

To make informed decisions, patients should actively seek information from various sources:

* **Hospital Websites:** Review hospital websites for information on asthma programs, specialists, and telehealth services.
* **CMS Website:** Utilize the CMS website to access hospital quality data, including readmission rates and patient satisfaction scores.
* **Physician Referrals:** Consult with primary care physicians and asthma specialists for recommendations and referrals.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews to gain insights into the experiences of other asthma patients.

**Conclusion**

This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 02725 for asthma care. Saint Anne's Hospital should be evaluated based on the factors outlined above. While Saint Anne's Hospital is the primary provider, patients should consider other hospitals, particularly those in Providence and Boston, for specialized care. By carefully considering these factors and accessing available information, asthma patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and improve their quality of life. The availability of comprehensive asthma management, including emergency services, specialized programs, and telehealth options, is crucial for optimal asthma care.